Are you looking for quick and easy dinner ideas that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition? Canned collard greens are a fantastic pantry staple, offering a shortcut to delicious, healthy meals without sacrificing homemade goodness. Forget lengthy prep times; these recipes showcase how versatile and flavorful canned collard greens can be, transforming a simple ingredient into satisfying and surprisingly exciting dishes. Whether you're a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, you'll find these recipes both accessible and inspiring. Let's dive into the world of canned collard greens and discover some truly amazing dishes!
Simple Southern-Style Collard Greens
This recipe is a perfect example of how to elevate canned collard greens into a comforting and flavorful side dish, reminiscent of classic Southern cooking.
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans collard greens, drained
- 1/2 cup smoked ham hock, diced (or vegetarian substitute like smoked tofu)
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the diced ham hock (or substitute) and cook for another 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained collard greens, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are heated through and slightly tender. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
- Serve: Serve as a side dish alongside your favorite protein and starch.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a good quality smoked ham hock.
- If the greens are too thick, you can roughly chop them before adding them to the skillet.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with other spices, such as cayenne pepper or liquid smoke, to personalize the flavor.
Spicy Collard Greens with Sausage and Potatoes
This recipe turns canned collard greens into a hearty and satisfying main course, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans collard greens, drained
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 pound small red potatoes, quartered
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the olive oil to the pot. Add the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using) and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the potatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine. Add the drained collard greens and the cooked sausage. Add 1 cup of water or broth.
- Cook: Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Use different types of sausage, such as chorizo or andouille.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or vegetable broth for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
The nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and variations used. However, generally, a serving of collard greens is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. Using lean protein sources and reducing added fats will further enhance the nutritional profile of these recipes. Always check nutrition labels on specific ingredients to calculate accurate nutritional values for your meal.
These recipes are just a starting point; let your culinary creativity flow and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own delicious and easy collard green dishes. Enjoy!